Specifications for Secondary Easement Pole Replacement Project

Keys Energy Services (KEYS), the municipal electric utility operated by the Utility Board of the City of Key West, Florida, is requesting proposals for installation of approximately 151 distribution poles throughout its 13.8 kV distribution system and relocation of approximately 145 customer service drops, with sealed electronic proposals due October 23, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. via VendorLink or DemandStar, or paper submittals by FedEx, UPS, or in-person delivery to 6900 Front Street Extended, Key West, Florida.

The scope comprises removing customer service drops from rear easements, installing new secondary service drops, and transferring service drops to new facilities within front-street rights-of-way where applicable. KEYS furnishes all poles and distribution line materials; the contractor provides labor, supervision, equipment, transportation, and all other costs for completion. Poles must be embedded at 7 feet plus 10% of pole height and backfilled with crushed rock, meeting extreme wind loading per NESC standards. Work occurs during 2027 and 2028, with KEYS allowing 2–4 crews concurrently. Each crew requires approximately three personnel with at least one holding Florida Maintenance of Traffic certification. Contractors must maintain City of Key West and Monroe County licenses, comply with APPA Safety Manual protocols, and demonstrate experience on similar projects within the past five years with acceptable safety records and adequate equipment and personnel.

Pricing is fixed price per pole for each identified pole, with contractors also providing hourly rates for work outside the base scope. Bid bonds or certified checks equal to 5% of the total proposal amount must accompany proposals, remain firm for a minimum of 120 days. Performance and Payment Bonds equal to 100% of the contract amount are due within ten days of Notice of Utility Board Approval. Insurance requirements include Commercial General Liability with $2 million general aggregate limits, Business Automobile Policy coverage of $1 million per occurrence, and Workers' Compensation insurance per federal and state law. KEYS anticipates awarding in December 2026 with project completion required by December 31, 2028, and contract duration extending through March 31, 2029. Liquidated damages of $500 per day apply for failure to substantially complete by the deadline. Questions are due October 9, 2026 at noon via email to purchasing@keysenergy.com. Payment is made within 30 days of invoice following acceptance, with 5% retainage held until 30 days after project completion and final acceptance.